Kia premieres the all-new Kia Optima in New York

The new Optima, the D-segment saloon from Kia, has been officially presented at the New York International Auto Show. The Optima model, called K5 in Korea, continues the transformation in Kia’s design.

Kia’s new saloon has been developed in the brand’s design studios in Frankfurt (Germany) and Irvine (California). Based on an all-new midsize platform, which allows for distinctive dimensions and proportions, the new Optima is longer, wider and and lower, comparing to the Magentis, the model it is replacing. This new platform also provides the design team to create a vehicle that is different from every car in the segment.

“The Optima is a new strand in Kia’s evolving design DNA with a blend of simple and fluid lines and elegant but uncomplicated shapes that draw the attention of the eye in much the same fashion as a perfectly-tailored fine Italian suit,” commented Peter Schreyer, Chief Design Officer, Kia Motors Corporation.

In Europe the new Optima will be powered by a 2.0-litre CVVL petrol, a 1.7-litre VGT turbo-diesel or a 2.4-litre MPI petrol engine (in Russia and some Eastern European markets). Outside Europe it will be available with six all-new Theta II family engines (depending on market), with the first Kia’s using the GDI technology. The new Optima will be fitted with manual or automatic transmissions, both with six speeds. For 2011 Kia should launch it’s first-ever hybrid vehicle for the North American market.

Featuring Kia’s signature grille, the new Optima has a coupe-like profile that is enhanced by the chrome arc that goes from A- to the C-pillars. This design lowers the car further and enhances its proportions.